NUP Denies Secret Talks with Government Amidst Rumors of Negotiations

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has issued a strong denial regarding any ongoing, behind-the-scenes negotiations with the government. This statement comes despite claims from multiple sources suggesting that informal conversations have occurred in recent months concerning several sensitive political matters in Uganda.

Sources, speaking anonymously from both government and opposition circles, indicated that these alleged discussions have focused on three critical areas: the potential return of NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine; the fate of individuals detained on political charges; and the party’s eligibility for significant public funding linked to its membership in the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD).

NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya has categorically dismissed these reports, stating, “There is no talks going on between government and NUP on any matters concerning us; whoever gave you that information was wrong.” He emphasized that the party’s stance on these issues remains firm and that no official negotiations are underway.

The reported conversations, described as informal rather than structured, allegedly involved NUP’s Rubongoya and Treasurer Benjamin Katana on one side, and Uganda’s Ambassador to the UN, Adonia Ayebare, on the government’s side. The primary sticking point appears to be concerns over Kyagulanyi’s security, especially following his departure from Uganda and subsequent international engagements, coupled with reports of abductions and alleged mistreatment of opposition supporters.

Another significant topic allegedly discussed is the release of political prisoners. NUP is reportedly pushing for the freedom of individuals detained since the 2021 elections. While sources suggest the government might consider releasing those arrested more recently, they reportedly distinguish these from cases stemming from the 2021 election period, which they categorize as criminal. NUP maintains its position that its members are often coerced into plea bargains due to prolonged detention without trial.

The third point of discussion involves NUP’s access to public funding through IPOD, estimated to be in the billions of Ugandan shillings. While NUP has formally expressed interest in joining IPOD, a minor disagreement arose regarding who would sign the Memorandum of Understanding, with Rubongoya proposing the acting party president in Kyagulanyi’s absence, a point that contrasts with IPOD’s requirement for the substantive party president.

Despite the ongoing correspondence regarding IPOD, Rubongoya insists that all related proceedings are transparent and in the public domain. The party faces internal financial pressures, with sources citing a decline in diaspora contributions and difficulties in covering operational costs.

Source: The Observer (Uganda) https://observer.ug/news/nup-breaks-silence-on-govt-bobi-talks